About

7 Reasons for Bennington

ProximityLocated at the main intersection of Rt. 9 from Albany, NY to I91, and Rt. 7 from Connecticut to Canada, Bennington is primed for business attraction. Bennington’s location also provides an advantage that is rarely found in other states. Our small size allows for the creation of close relationships with local, state and federal lawmakers.

Albany, NY = 40 mls

Boston, MA = 150 mls

New York City = 182 mls

Montreal, QC = 230 mls

TransportationBennington’s landscape provides for rail freight, air and highway transportation, and with a local air facility and Albany International Airport less than an hour away, professionals can travel internationally with ease. In addition, public transportation allows for commuting to and from work and occasional trips throughout the region.

IncentivesEven though Vermont is a small state, it packs a big punch. Local and State incentive programs provide support to new and existing companies in a number of different ways. Vermont is the only US State that has a state-wide EB5 program which is designed to allow international investors to secure visas in exchange for investments made in the United States. Bennington is also identified as a foreign trade zone allowing for easier shipping of materials outside the U.S.Specific incentive programs include:

Tax Stabilization

Vermont Employment Growth Incentive (VEGI)

State and federal grants

Low interest loan programs

Private investment opportunities

State-wide EB5

Foreign Trade Zone

Workforce DevelopmentWith 5 colleges, a career development center, and a high school that is focused on the practical application of skills learned, Bennington has identified workforce development as one of its top priorities. Current efforts have assisted our composites cluster in the creation of a local technicians program and the national need for skilled nurses has resulted in the development of advanced nursing programs.

Shovel Ready SitesWith premium commercial and industrial space readily available, potential investors will have no problem identifying a location that fits the needs of their specific industry. Available properties in town include land in the Morse Industrial Park, the Maneely Industrial Park, space in three significant shopping centers, and our historic down-town. The majority of these sites are shovel ready if not ready for immediate occupancy and for companies looking to build, efforts have been made to streamline the permitting process with pre-zoned locations.

Lifestyle and RecreationLocated in a state that prides itself on outdoor engagement, Bennington offers residents and visitors the opportunity to experience nature up close. With a community recreation center, bike trails and significant byways program, it is easy to find yourself in town enjoying our small businesses or on a back road touring our covered bridges. Bennington is also the home of the Bennington Battle Monument, commemorat-ing a pivotal battle in the revolutionary war, and is located in the Green Mountain National Forest which encompasses more than 400,000 acres.

Arts and EntertainmentOne doesn’t have to go far to find the artistic attributes of this community. With a significant art presence in the downtown, individuals can easily walk from one gallery to the next. This walking community would not be what it is without some cornerstones in our community. These include: the Bennington Museum, the Bennington Center for the Arts, the Vermont Arts Exchange and Oldcastle Theatre Company.

Bennington is a town of self-starters, artistic cultivators, and energetic communicators. It truly is a community that has deep rooted beliefs of pride, determination and independence. I am proud to call myself a Benningtonian.